Product Description

Islands have incited passion throughout the ages. These 'watery lands' symbolise the eternal contrast between land and water, suggesting mystery and adventure, romanticism and beauty. For centuries, they have stimulated the imaginations of writers, artists, historians and naturalists alike. The genetic isolation of islands often leads to the development of unique elements in the flora, fauna and wildlife. In his fourth New Naturalist volume, Professor R. J. Berry takes a broad look at the islands that lie off the shore of Britain and Ireland, exploring their biology, geography, geology and climate, and examining changes that have occurred in the past and how these become relevant for future developments. Laced throughout with Professor Berry's expertise and enthusiasm, this all-encompassing, engrossing volume is a lyrical journey of the islands that shape our imagination and our awareness. Berry presents a wealth of scientific information which will be read and enjoyed by expert and amateur alike.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #103989 in Books
• Published on: 2009-02-05
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 320 pages

Review
PRAISE FOR R. J. BERRY'S PREVIOUS TITLES: 'Inheritance and Natural History': 'Of all the many virtues of Professor Berry's book -- its wit and elegance, its marvellous rummagings, its great common sense -- I would value very highly the fact that it is not oversimplified! Professor Berry's profoundly important book is a worthy addition to the ecosystem, being in its form just as much as its theme, an expression of the diversity of the creation, and an excellent subject for natural selection.' Richard Mabey, The Times 'Natural History of Shetland': 'This book is a delight for the general reader. I have no doubt that it is of absorbing interest to the specialist. Even I, who can hardly tell a dandelion from a buttercup or sandstone from granite, read the chapters on vegetation and geology with pleasure! This book will be read with enjoyment even by those who don't go to Shetland and is a splendid bonus for those who can.' the Daily Telegraph 'Natural History of Orkney': 'There is nothing quite so infectious as enthusiasm, and on the subject of Orkney the distinguished Professor of Genetics at London University, R. J. Berry is positively brimful of it! He has produced a wonderful survey of the natural history of Orkney in one volume at a reasonable price and written in a style to gladden the hearts of non-scientific readers.' Glasgow Herald

About the Author
By R. J. Berry

Customer Reviews

A geneticist falls in love with islands
This is a book to treasure - the author is totally in love with his subject and it shows on every page.

It is the latest addition to the authoritative Collins New Naturalist Library, to which Professor Berry has already contributed books on the natural history of Shetland, of Orkney and on Inheritance and Natural History. "Islands" is a grandly simple title. Do not be misled, however, by his modest description: "This is a book about the biology of the islands around Great Britain and Ireland." It is that...and much more: his interest in and experience of islands is holistic and global, going far beyond his speciality - genetics.

Two pages of text on unique island species include references to Madagascar, New Guinea, New Zealand, St Helena, Hawaii, Polynesia, Madeira, Deserta Grande, Tristan da Cunha, the Azores, Mauritius, Réunion, Rodriguez, St Kilda, Papa Westray, Scalpay, Tasmania, Galapagos and New Caledonia. Only three are islands round Great Britain, though two more are part of the scattered UK overseas territories whose unique biodiversity remains a British responsibility.

This richly scientific explanation of why islands matter out of all proportion to their area or human population - and many fewer of the islands round Britain and Ireland now have year-long residents - will delight island-lovers, islomaniacs and nissologists. It is, however, not just for those who, like the author when young, were bewitched by Robinson Crusoe, Treasure Island and Arthur Ransome's fictional Wild Cat, Crab and Mastodon Islands. For islanders - those who live on small islands, proudly but often precariously (there is a terrific chapter on "Survivors and Non-Survivors: the Consequences of Island Life") - there is much here to help explain to outsiders ("strangers" in Pitkern - an official language on Pitcairn) why their island homes are so special and should be treated with respect.

As with all NN books, the editing and production are impeccable. Robert Gillmor's cover design gives a St Kilda Wren's eye view over the cottages of Village Bay on Hirta, flanked by the serrated outline of Dun, with puffins in flight overhead. Such memories that view brings back! 246 illustrations (many fine colour photographs, maps and tables when the topic needs them), a rich bibliography, a good index - add on Amazon's discount and this is the bargain of the year

Islands--Collins New Naturalist Library
This is a wonderful book with excellent photographs of the most important islands around the coasts of the UK together with very good descriptions of their respective flora and fauna.Eminently suitable for both the academic and non academic student of natural history.G.E.Smart.

Islands by R J Berry
This is an excellent study of the islands surrounding the coastline of Britain. Despite it being an academic textbook, part of the acclaimed New Naturalist series, Professor Berry has succeeded in writing a book that is eminently readable. Highly recommended for anyone interested in our coastline.Islands (Collins New Naturalist Library)